This week, the world-famous violinist Midori performed for #BCS students in their schools, and even played alongside many of them during her week-long residency with the Asheville Symphony Youth Orchestra (ASYO)! Today, she performed at both T.C. Roberson High and Clyde A. Erwin High, and conducted master classes for strings students.

“When she walked in, she had this musical glow about her,” recalled Avery Narron, a senior at A.C. Reynolds High, who plays trumpet with the ASYO. “It is very special to meet someone who is one of the best who has ever lived.”

In her clinic at Erwin, Midori explained to students that even when they know their music well, “it is important to think ahead- to always be aware of what is coming,” as this can help them stay focused and accurate, even if something unexpected happens during the performance. She also spoke about the intensity of her personal practice schedule, which had an impact on Chloe Lindberg, a junior oboist at TC Roberson.

“She’s a true professional and everything she does is perfect,” recalled Lindberg. “As a musician, it makes me want to strive to reach her level. She taught us the importance of a practice schedule- how rigorous it needs to be- because you can’t be a good musician without practice.”

Erwin’s strings instructor, Mr. Paul Zinke, was thrilled for his students to experience first hand that "music extends beyond their classrooms, and that they can be a part of that musical world. It means a lot to us as we continually work to build a stronger program.”

Cara Jenkins, manager of the Asheville Symphony, explained that the week-long residency with Midori will be uniquely transformative for each student. “I’m grateful our community has had this opportunity to work with such a passionate, gifted musician and educator,” she said.

“I’m hoping that they will take whatever they can,” Midori said before joining the students on stage for a strings clinic. “It’s not for me to tell them what they should get out of it; it’s up to the individual person.”

Before she returns home, Midori will hold a public performance with the ASYO on March 18th at 2:00 p.m. at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in Asheville.*

*BCS families may use coupon code “BCSD20” to apply a 20% discount. Tickets are available here: http://bit.ly/2lyNPdc